U.S. and Russian Negotiators Initiate Ceasefire Talks in Saudi Arabia
U.S. and Russian negotiators are discussing a partial ceasefire in Ukraine in Saudi Arabia, focusing on a pause in attacks on energy facilities and civilian infrastructure. Disagreements remain on the scope of the ceasefire, despite an agreement in principle. President Zelenskyy has called for more international pressure on Russia to cease hostilities, while the conditions set by President Putin present challenges to achieving a complete ceasefire.
On Monday, United States and Russian negotiators commenced discussions in Saudi Arabia regarding a partial ceasefire in Ukraine, as reported by Russian state agencies, Tass and RIA-Novosti. This meeting follows a sequence of negotiations amongst U.S. and Ukrainian representatives, focusing on a cessation of hostilities.
The talks aim to establish a pause in long-range assaults on energy facilities and civilian infrastructure, as well as to halt attacks in the Black Sea for the safety of commercial shipping. Following an agreement in principle for a limited ceasefire between Ukraine and Russia, conflicts remain regarding which targets will be exempt from attacks.
The White House indicated that the ceasefire would cover “energy and infrastructure,” while the Kremlin suggested it pertained only to “energy infrastructure.” Additionally, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed the desire to extend protections to railways and ports.
Recent hostile actions included Russia’s drone strikes across Ukraine, which tragically resulted in the deaths of at least seven individuals, including a father and his young daughter. President Zelenskyy called for increased pressure on Russia to cease such acts of terror, emphasizing that the responsibility also lies with Ukraine’s global partners.
Zelenskyy has publicly stated Ukraine’s willingness to pursue a full, 30-day ceasefire, as suggested by President Trump. However, President Putin has conditioned his agreement on the cessation of arms supplies to Ukraine and a halt to its military mobilization—demands that Ukraine and its allies have steadfastly rejected. Steve Witkoff, Trump’s special envoy, remarked on Fox News Sunday, expressing optimism for meaningful progress in the ceasefire discussions, especially concerning maritime safety in the Black Sea.
In summary, U.S. and Russian negotiators are engaged in discussions in Saudi Arabia aimed at establishing a partial ceasefire in Ukraine, emphasizing safe shipping in the Black Sea and protections for civilian infrastructure. Although a preliminary agreement has been reached, significant discrepancies exist between the parties regarding the extent of targets protected from attack. President Zelenskyy seeks comprehensive safeguards, while President Putin’s conditions complicate prospects for a lasting resolution. Enhanced international pressure on Russia emerges as a crucial component in these discussions.
Original Source: www.seattletimes.com
